Partnering to catalyze innovation in school food systems

Partnering to catalyze innovation in school food systems

Photograph of salad bar with fresh vegetables

Fostering Resilient School Food Systems

SCALES is a cooperative agreement funded by the United States Department of Agriculture, led by Boise State University. A key goal is to support innovation to increase the use of locally-sourced foods and beverages in school meals.

Grants to School Food Authorities (SFAs)

SCALES will be issuing up to 70 grants to SFAs across the United States. Grants will last for two years and provide up to $150,000 for each SFA to engage in projects to increase local procurement.

Image of children being served a meal in cafeteria by a smiling food service employee
Photograph of young African American woman smiling and holding a tray of vegetables while standing in front of a greenhouse.

Partnerships

We will be funding projects that build partnerships across all aspects of the food system, including growers and producers, food distributors and processors, and businesses that facilitate purchasing and preparation.

Implementation Support

Customized technical assistance and support will be provided to SFAs throughout the grant period, including individual meetings and a learning community where child nutrition program operators can learn how to increase local procurement.

Photograph of two hands holding a bunch of cherry tomatoes in the shape of a heart.
Photograph of aerial view of a farm with rows of green vegetables.

Sharing What Works

We are looking forward to learning from our grantees and will be tracking outcomes and sharing stories about their successes!